Prince and Kings County seniors with complex mental health conditions will soon have access to a community-based Seniors Mental Health Resource Team.
Health and Wellness Minister Robert Henderson said this week, during Mental Health Week, that the service will become operational by the end of this month at St. Eleanor’s House in Summerside, and in Kings County by the end of this year. Annual funding of $717,000 will be provided to fund both teams once they are fully operational.
“The provincial government is committed to expanding mental health services that support people with mental health problems in the community before they need to be admitted to a health care facility,” said the minister. “The Seniors Mental Health Teams are knowledgeable and skilled in providing mental health care to seniors, and they will be a tremendous support to Prince and Kings County seniors and families.”
A Seniors Mental Health Resource Team has been operating successfully out of McGill Centre in Charlottetown for several years. It strives to reduce the impact of psychiatric symptoms, improve the quality of life of clients and their caregivers, and assist in maintaining independent living.
The team serves older adults who are experiencing complex emotional, cognitive, functional or behavioral problems. Clinic-based services are provided, as well as community outreach to clients in their homes, community care and long term care facilities.
The team includes RNs and LPNs, social work, psychiatry and consulting psychology staff who work collaboratively with Home Care, the Provincial Geriatrician Program, inpatient psychiatric units and family physicians.
“Seniors with multiple and complex mental health needs require a range of specialized health, social and community services,” says community mental health nurse Shelly Higgins. “We have had wonderful feedback from our clients whose quality of life has improved with the support of our team. We are excited to be able to expand our service Island-wide, making it easier for families to access front line mental health care closer to home.”
Last year, the team received over 200 referrals for services within the Queens County region. Referrals can be made by an individual; however, it is preferred that they be made whenever possible by a health care provider.